NFTS Celebrates the Legacy of Nik Powell: Five Years On

Five years after passing away on 7th November 2019 at the age of 69, the National Film and Television School (NFTS) celebrates the enduring legacy of Nik Powell, visionary producer and former Director of the School. Known for his passion, generosity and commitment to nurturing the next generation of filmmakers, Nik’s influence and contribution to the creative industries continues to inspire NFTS students, staff and alumni alike.

Nik was NFTS Director from 2003, stepping down in 2017. During his tenure, he helped to transform the NFTS into one of the world’s leading film schools, steering it through a period of remarkable growth and innovation. Nik’s leadership was instrumental in shaping the School’s ethos of collaboration and creative excellence, ensuring that under his leadership, NFTS graduates left equipped to make their mark on the global stage.

As we mark his five-year anniversary, the NFTS reflects on the profound impact Nik made.
 

The Nik Powell Scholarship: A Lasting Legacy

To honour Nik’s memory, the NFTS established the Nik Powell Scholarship, a tribute to his unwavering commitment to supporting emerging talent. The scholarship provides financial support to promising Producing students who may not otherwise have access to world-class education, ensuring that Nik’s legacy of nurturing young filmmakers continues for generations to come.

Since its inception in 2020, the Nik Powell Scholarship has enabled the next generation of talented producers to pursue their dreams at the NFTS. Mentored throughout their training at the NFTS by a leading industry figure, they have already gone on to achieve success in their careers, both in the UK and internationally.

The first recipient of the Nik Powell Scholarship was Alexander Handschuh, now a Producer at leading production studio Blinkink, creating short form video content for the advertising, music, gaming, fashion and broadcast industries. Alexander has also worked for the award-winning Big Talk Studios, one of the world’s leading scripted television companies, producing comedy blaps for Channel 4.

Graduating from the NFTS in 2023 having been awarded funding via the Nik Powell Scholarship, Tidža Karup now works as a Development and Production Executive at Wild Swim Films (How To Have Sex, Tuesday, Bring Them Down). Previously, Tidža produced promo shoots and campaigns for broadcasters including NBCUniversal, Viaplay and Viacom. 

Toyosi Fuwa a current student training at the NFTS, credits the Nik Powell Scholarship for enabling her to explore the full scope of producing in both film and television. “Thanks to funding from the Nik Powell Scholarship I have been able to learn about the breadth of producing in both film and TV, and have enjoyed the opportunities to collaborate with fellow creatives across genres. Once I graduate, my aim is to work in TV distribution and support the packaging and financing of television programmes with a focus on diverse storytelling.”

NFTS Director Jon Wardle said: “Nik is much missed by all at the NFTS. The Nik Powell Scholarship allows recipients to focus fully on the craft of Producing, gaining the skills needed to succeed in an increasingly competitive industry.”

A Visionary Leader Remembered

Nik Powell’s influence was not limited to his work at the NFTS. Before joining the School, he co-founded the iconic Virgin Records alongside Richard Branson, shaping the music industry before turning his focus to film. His later career as a producer included a string of acclaimed films such as The Crying Game, Little Voice and Absolute Beginners. Nik’s deep understanding of the creative process, combined with his tireless support for young filmmakers, made him a larger than life figure both within and outside the School.

Five years on, the NFTS remains committed to upholding the values Nik championed; creative ambition, inclusivity and excellence. His legacy lives on through the countless filmmakers whose lives he touched, as well as the ongoing work of the School he helped build.

As we remember Nik Powell, we celebrate his life and the lasting impact he made on the NFTS and the creative industries as a whole. Through the Nik Powell Scholarship and the achievements of its recipients, his spirit of mentorship and opportunity continues to shape the future of film, television, and games.

As one of the world’s leading film schools, the NFTS is committed to accessibility for all students, regardless of their background or financial circumstances. Recognising its responsibility to shape the next generation of creative talent, the School strives to ensure that the creative industries reflect the full diversity of the UK. To support this mission, the NFTS provides over £2 million annually in scholarship and bursary funding to help students achieve their potential.

It is still possible to donate to the Nik Powell Scholarship fund. Making a donation will enable future emerging producers to attend the NFTS. 

Pledge a gift here: justgiving.com/film-televisionsch 

For more information on the Nik Powell Scholarship go to: nfts.co.uk/nik-powell-scholarship

Applications for the NFTS Producing MA re-open in January 2025 to join the NFTS in January 2026. Find out more at: nfts.co.uk/producing